Barcelona defender Thomas Vermaelen has reportedly emerged as a potential transfer target for Southampton and Watford.
Vermaelen is currently in his fifth campaign at Camp Nou, but the Belgium international has made just 44 appearances for the Catalan giants since 2014.
The 33-year-old's contract expires at the end of the season, and with Barcelona unlikely to offer Vermaelen fresh terms, there is interest in the player's signature.
According to Mundo Deportivo, both Southampton and Watford are considering an approach for the left-footed defender at the start of 2019.
Southampton will be looking for reinforcements to try to keep the club away from the Premier League relegation zone, while Watford may look to strengthen in a bid to remain in the top 10 of the standings.
The report claims that Vermaelen is looking to return to English football, where he has previously enjoyed a successful period with Arsenal.
Darren Plant
